To the Editor:

Many times, elections are more of a popularity contest, than won by the most qualified individual for the position.

This year there are three candidates running for St. Lawrence County treasurer. All of these candidates have special skill sets, as well all probably meet the qualifications to run for this office.

In my opinion, one of these candidates stand out, based on being most qualified for the job. Derek Vanhouse is a certified public accountant, seeking this position of county treasurer.

The last year and a half of my tenure at the county legislature, we, as a board have made great strides to right this sinking ship. One of the main reasons of success, is our ability to hire very well qualified people for the positions, not based on voter registration, but in our minds most qualified for the job.

We hired a very well qualified and competent county administrator. We have hired a very aggressive and NY state recognized county attorney. Our new public defender is doing a very good job moving cases through the courts, as well our new human resource director has done an outstanding job dealing with personnel issues, also helping us look into employee benefits for all our retirees as well as current employees to help maintain the same or better quality of benefits at a substantially more reasonable cost.

In order to keep this momentum going, I ask all voters to consider Derek Vanhouse for out next county treasurer. I believe his years of expertise being a certified public accountant will be a tremendous asset to our board. By having reliable financial information, in a timely manner, we as a board will be able to make educated decisions that will keep moving this county moving forward, and make it a more stable place to live and work.

I would like to thank all candidates for running for this office, and believe me, I do appreciate the commitment of time and family in seeking these offices.

David Forsythe

St. Lawrence County legislator